THIS is a response to the letter about the employment of a litter picker at Forest High School.

­I understand your concerns, however, you are probably unaware that this role picks litter across the whole site including the leisure centre facilities which are used considerably during the day and after school by a number of community groups and the general public.

The amount of school litter is minimal and wouldn't require a litter picker.

It is a sad reflection on society today that the vast majority of rubbish collected is as a consequence of litter discarded by the general public on a site where I have a responsibility to maintain health and safety for our young people.

Unfortunately, we are also experiencing fly-tipping at the front of the school which needs clearing with urgency.

I do understand your anger but now that you are aware of the role of the litter picker you will see why we have a need for this.

– Y Jones, headteacher, Forest High School, Cinderford.